How many days does it take to cure lice? - briefly
Effective treatment typically eliminates active lice within 7–10 days, while a follow‑up application 7–10 days later removes any newly hatched nymphs, resulting in complete clearance after about two weeks.
How many days does it take to cure lice? - in detail
The elimination of head‑lice infestations generally requires a treatment period of 7 to 10 days, but the exact timeline depends on the method used and the severity of the infestation.
The first application of a pediculicide—whether a prescription lotion, over‑the‑counter shampoo, or a silicone‑based product—kills live insects on contact. Most products remain effective for 24 hours, after which newly hatched nymphs emerge from eggs that survived the initial dose. A second treatment applied 7 to 9 days later targets these hatching lice and prevents re‑infestation.
Key factors influencing the total duration:
- Egg resistance: Some formulations do not dissolve the protective shell; residual eggs may hatch after the first dose, extending the cure period.
- Infestation density: Heavy loads increase the chance that a few lice survive, requiring additional applications.
- Compliance: Properly following label instructions—covering the scalp for the recommended time, rinsing thoroughly, and repeating the treatment on schedule—shortens the process.
- Environmental control: Washing bedding, hats, and hair accessories at 130 °F (54 °C) or sealing them in plastic bags for two weeks removes hidden eggs, reducing the need for extra treatment cycles.
Typical protocol:
- Apply the chosen product to dry hair, following the manufacturer’s timing guidelines.
- Comb the hair with a fine‑toothed nit comb immediately after treatment to remove dead insects and loosen eggs.
- Repeat the application after 7–9 days.
- Perform daily combing for an additional 3–5 days to catch any remaining hatchlings.
- Launder or isolate all personal items for at least two weeks.
If resistance is suspected—evidenced by persistent lice after two full treatment cycles—consult a healthcare professional for an alternative prescription, such as ivermectin or malathion, which may shorten the eradication window to 4–6 days with a single dose.
Overall, a well‑executed regimen, combined with thorough environmental measures, typically resolves an infestation within ten days, with most cases cleared by the second treatment.